Creating Jobs, Building Strong Communities In Simcoe Area

Archived
News Release

Creating Jobs, Building Strong Communities In Simcoe Area

McGuinty Government Unveils 'Made-in-Simcoe' Growth Plan

Ontario is helping to ensure that Simcoe-area families continue to enjoy good jobs, strong communities and a healthy environment.

The Growth Plan for the Greater Golden Horseshoe now includes an amendment that allows the County of Simcoe and the cities of Barrie and Orillia to grow, while curbing urban sprawl and continuing to protect green spaces and valuable farmland. The amendment supports Ontario's plan to protect Lake Simcoe and allows local decision-makers to approve development that makes sense for their communities.

Ensuring sustainable development is part of the McGuinty government's plan to protect the environment while creating jobs, attracting new investment and strengthening local economies.

Quick Facts

The amendment was developed after extensive consultations with Simcoe-area municipalities and community members, and advice from development and planning experts.

Since 2003, the McGuinty government has made significant infrastructure investments in the Simcoe area, including nearly $100 million in stimulus projects such as the first phase of Georgian College's Centre for Health and Wellness, the resurfacing of Highway 11 in Oro-Medonte and the Bradford West Gwillimbury Library and Cultural Centre.

The new Allandale GO station in downtown Barrie will make travel easier for commuters in this rapidly growing community.

The expansion of the Royal Victoria Hospital in Barrie will double the size of the existing facility and include the addition of the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre. At the height of construction, approximately 300 workers are expected to be on-site every day.

Quotes

“This shared vision for sustainable growth will help ensure that the Simcoe area continues to be a great place to live, work, invest and raise a family. I look forward to working closely with municipalities, residents and other stakeholders as we implement this plan together.”

Bob Chiarelli

Minister of Infrastructure, Minister of Transportation

“The efforts to ensure a 'made-in-Simcoe' solution to growth in our area are to be commended. We share with our neighbours a desire to see Simcoe County and Barrie grow in a way that reflects our common vision for responsible, balanced growth. This revised plan will help unlock jobs and economic growth in Simcoe County.”